When to Plant Clematis
Flowering perennial vine producing masses of star or bell-shaped blooms. 'Queen of the Climbers' with varieties for every zone.
The Short Answer
How to Grow Clematis
The 'Queen of Climbers' has one golden rule: head in the sun, feet in the shade. The top of the plant needs full sun to bloom; the roots need cool, shaded soil. Achieve this by planting low perennials or applying thick mulch at the base. Pruning depends on bloom group: Group 1 blooms on old wood (prune after flowering); Group 2 blooms on old and new wood (light prune in late winter); Group 3 blooms on new wood (cut to 12 inches in late winter). Clematis takes 2-3 years to fully establish — the old saying is 'first year sleep, second year creep, third year leap.'
Transplanting
Move seedlings outside 0 weeks after your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 50°F. Harden off seedlings for 7 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Fall Planting
Clematis are planted in fall, 6 weeks before your average first frost date. Plant 2" deep, 36" apart.
Growing Tips
The rule: 'head in the sun, feet in the shade.' Mulch roots or plant low perennials at the base. Prune according to bloom group — some bloom on old wood, some on new. Takes 2-3 years to fully establish.
Companion Planting
Good companions:
Clematis Planting Dates by State
Click your state for clematis planting dates specific to your location:
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026